Elton John Pays Tribute To George Michael On Radio Hour

Elton John, longtime friend to the late George Michael, dedicated his hour-long show Rocket Hour on Beats 1 Radio to the musician.

ELTON JOHN PAYS TRIBUTE TO THE LATE GEORGE MICHAEL

“I wanted to do a little tribute to him on the show because not only was he a good friend, but he was probably one of the most brilliant songwriters this country’s ever produced, and certainly one of the best vocalists ever that we ever produced and one of the best in the world,” John explained. “I just wanna remember him for his wonderful music and his kindness… Without any publicity, I’ve seen him being so kind to so many people. I’ll miss him so much for his music, but more than anything, for his humanity.”

John and Michael collaborated on the 1991 version of “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me,” and had known each other for decades previously. John played six tracks during the 60 minutes of air time in honor of Michael’s memory, including Michael’s “One More Try” and Ray Charles‘ “Drown in My Own Tears.”

“I put together a list of songs right now, which I’m going to play you without interruption that get sadder and sadder and sadder because I’m so sad about it. It’s going to start off with a song from his from the Faith album called “One More Try,” which if Aretha Franklin sang, it wouldn’t be any great surprise. I don’t get jealous of many songs, but I’m jealous of this song. I’d love to have written this,” he admitted. “George Michael, we miss you, we love you, I love you, and this is a tribute to you.”

George Michael died on Christmas morning peacefully in his sleep. His cause of death has not been announced, and his autopsy was “inconclusive.”